Overview

• A novel class of small molecules, including Fento-1, activates lysosomal iron to induce ferroptosis in drug-tolerant cancer cells.
• Drug-tolerant persister cells, which overexpress CD44 and accumulate iron, are particularly vulnerable to this lipid degradation process.
• Preclinical trials demonstrated significant tumor reduction in metastatic breast cancer and cytotoxic effects in pancreatic and sarcoma models.
• Fento-1's fluorescent design allows researchers to track its accumulation in lysosomes, confirming its targeted action.
• Researchers are preparing clinical trials to validate the therapeutic potential of these molecules as a complement to standard chemotherapy.